Comprehensive FAQ for Stone Surfaces:
Frequently Asked Questions
Please review our Terms and Conditions.
General Questions
What types of materials does Craftsman Ltd. offer?
- Granite: Durable and scratch-resistant, ideal for busy kitchens.
- Quartz: Engineered for consistency, low-maintenance, and stain resistance.
- Marble: Luxurious with unique veining, requires more care.
- Quartzite: Natural elegance with better durability than marble.
- Porcelain/Sintered Stone: Hardwearing, resistant to heat, scratches, and stains.
- Ceramic: Highly durable and virtually non-porous.
- Onyx: Exquisite and translucent, suitable for decorative applications.
- Slate: Natural and rustic, ideal for floors and countertops.
- Sandstone: Textured and earthy, used in specific design aesthetics.
- Travertine: A natural stone with a unique porous look, ideal for flooring and walls.
- Limestone: Smooth and elegant, often used in bathrooms and fireplaces.
- Glass & Mirrors: Sleek, modern options for backsplashes and decorative surfaces.
Why choose Craftsman Ltd.?
Craftsman Ltd. is a family-run business with over 20 years of experience. We handle everything under one roof—from helping you choose the perfect slab to expert measurement, crafting, and installation—providing a seamless, personalized service.
How long does the process take?
From selection to installation, the process typically takes about two weeks, depending on material availability and project complexity.
Choosing Your Material
How do I decide which stone is best for my needs?
- Lifestyle: For high-use areas, choose durable options like granite or quartzite.
- Maintenance: Quartz and porcelain require minimal upkeep.
- Aesthetics: Marble offers luxury, while quartz ensures consistency.
- Design Intent: Onyx for decorative appeal, limestone for smooth elegance, or slate for a rustic look.
Can I see samples before deciding?
Yes, visit our yard to view and touch a variety of slabs. Seeing textures and patterns in person helps make an informed decision. While we may not have every material on-site, we can order engineered stone samples directly from suppliers. Natural stone samples can be produced upon request for a fee of £20+VAT, refundable up to £10+VAT upon return.
What's the difference between natural and engineered stones?
- Natural stones (e.g., granite, marble, onyx) are unique, with patterns formed by nature.
- Engineered stones (e.g., quartz, porcelain) are consistent in pattern and color, made by combining natural materials with resins.
Measuring and Installation
How do I prepare for the templating visit?
- Ensure cabinets are installed, level, and securely fixed.
- Remove temporary worktops and ensure the area is clear. If removal is not possible, let us know for guidance, as templating over existing worktops is sometimes feasible.
- Have sinks, taps, and appliances on-site for precise measurements.
Will there be visible joints in my worktop?
Large slabs may require joints due to material size and handling constraints. Our team ensures joints are minimal and strategically placed.
How do I prepare for installation?
- Clear the work area of obstacles and remove cupboard fronts.
- Ensure parking and easy access for our team.
- Heavy undermounted sinks should have wooden frames or cradles pre-installed.
Do I need to provide extra hands for lifting?
For large or heavy pieces, additional lifting assistance may be required. We can arrange this for an extra fee if notified in advance.
Will Craftsman Ltd. connect water or gas fittings?
No, we install the worktops but recommend hiring qualified plumbers or electricians for connections.
Care and Maintenance
General Cleaning Tips
- Use mild soap and warm water with a soft cloth.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners, bleach, or acidic substances.
- Dry surfaces with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks.
Preventing Damage
- Use cutting boards and trivets to protect surfaces.
- Wipe up spills immediately, especially acidic or oil-based substances.
- Avoid standing or placing excessive weight on worktops.
Material-Specific Care
Granite
- Requires periodic sealing (every 4-6 months) to maintain its durability.
- Clean with pH-neutral cleaners like Lithofin Easy-Clean.
- Avoid contact with strong acids, oils, or bleach.
Quartz
- Non-porous and doesn't require sealing.
- Avoid high heat and harsh chemicals like oven cleaners.
Marble
- Use coasters and mats to prevent etching from acidic substances.
- Seal regularly to protect against staining.
- Expect a patina to develop over time, adding character.
Quartzite
- Seal periodically to maintain resistance to stains.
- Treat acid-based spills quickly to avoid etching.
Porcelain & Ceramic
- Highly resistant to staining and heat.
- Clean with mild soapy water; avoid abrasive pads.
- Does not require sealing.
Onyx
- Avoid harsh chemicals; clean with a damp, soft cloth.
- Handle with care to prevent scratches or chips.
- Suitable for low-traffic or decorative areas.
Slate
- Wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Apply stone-specific sealers to maintain its rustic look.
Sandstone
- Clean with a soft brush and pH-neutral cleaner.
- Seal to protect its porous surface from staining.
Travertine
- Seal regularly due to its porous nature.
- Use coasters and mats to prevent staining and etching.
Limestone
- Avoid acidic cleaners; use pH-neutral products.
- Seal periodically to protect its smooth surface.
Glass & Mirrors
- Clean with glass-specific cleaners or warm soapy water.
- Avoid abrasive pads that could scratch the surface.
Removing Stains
- Organic stains (e.g., wine, coffee): Use water-based stain removers.
- Greasy stains: Use an alkaline degreaser.
- Deep cleaning: Periodically use specialized cleaners like Lithofin Wexa or DryTreat Rejuvenata.
Troubleshooting and Repairs
Are natural imperfections in stone considered defects?
No, natural stones like granite and marble have unique patterns and features such as veining and small fissures, which are part of their beauty. These are not considered defects.
Can chips or scratches be repaired?
Yes, minor damages can often be repaired using resin fillers or polishing. Contact us for professional repair services.
Additional Services
Do you offer DIY options?
Yes, we can supply materials for DIY projects. However, note that stone is heavy and requires careful handling. We provide guidance documents for DIY installations.
Can I purchase offcuts for small projects?
Absolutely! We offer a variety of offcuts ideal for DIY projects or smaller installations.
Contact Us
We are proud of our work and we are sure all our customers are proud of the end results of our work. Please feel free to contact us - we will gladly provide details of our clients in your area who you can talk to or perhaps visit to see our work first hand.
